1. Villa like to wing it

We've said it before, but the extent to which Villa concentrate their attacks down the wings is staggering. Look at the lack of passes in the centre of the field. This approach has slowly evolved during Martin O'Neill's reign; contrast the Bolton game with his first home match as manager, against Reading in 2006-07.

2. Valencia pens in Cole

Chelsea's struggle to breakdown Manchester United owed much to Antonio Valencia's diligent shepherding of Ashley Cole throughout. Cristiano Ronaldo's replacement was far more diligent when it came to tracking the Chelsea full-back than the Portuguese. Cole made almost as many passes as he did in last year's fixture but far fewer of them were in threatening, advanced positions.

3. Vermaelen's defensive strength

Thomas Vermaelen has been hailed for his attacking contribution since joining Arsenal. However, this comparison of his performance against Wolves with that of Kolo Toure against Stoke this time last year shows he is far more willing to sit in defence in a tough game away from home. Toure's performance away at Stoke may have been more dynamic but Arsenal conceded two goals in defeat.